Radiofrequency ablation with and without balloon occlusion of the renal artery: an experimental study in porcine kidneys.

Purpose: To compare thermal lesion volumes and associated renal damage (other than thermal lesions) when radiofrequency (RF) ablation is performed with and without balloon occlusion of the renal artery in normal porcine kidneys.

Materials And Methods: RF ablation was performed in six pigs. An electrode with eight circumferential prongs arranged in a circle 20 mm in diameter was inserted into the lower pole of the kidney.